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In addition to the breathtaking beaches and stunning natural beauty of the Philippines, the Filipino culture and people are two of the main elements that makes this destination an increasingly popular hotspot for travellers from around the world.  An essential part of the Philippines’ vibrant culture are the colourful local festivals that take place throughout the year, attracting travellers from around the globe.

According to Benito Bengzon Jr, Undersecretary for the Philippine Department of Tourism, The Philippines has seen a growth of 10.2% in arrivals p/a for the last three years, which he claims is faster than international growth to the rest of Southeast Asia, averaging 6.3% for the same period.  Mr Bengzon Jr made the announcement at the recent CAPA LCCs in North Asia Summit on behalf of Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat.

These figures reveal that a growing number of travellers are realising the wonders of this incredible destination. Given this unprecedented growth, the Philippine Department of Tourism is encouraging travellers to book their travel well in advance to avoid disappointment, especially when it comes to experiencing the array of cultural festivals which attract crowds from all over the Philippines and beyond.

Perhaps one of the most popular festivals, Sinulog-Santo Nino Festival is an annual cultural and religious festival which is held on the third weekend in January and routinely attracts around 1 to 2 million people each year. The main festival is held in Cebu City and is the centre of the Santo Niño Catholic celebrations in the Philippines. Famous for its street parties, the merriments of the Sinulog festival often last for the whole month.

Ms Norjamin Delos Reyes, Tourism Attaché at Philippine Department of Tourism Australia and New Zealand said,

“The Sinulog Festival never ceases to amaze, and travellers planning to join the festival can expect to see colourful costumes, beautiful dances and music played by drums, trumpets, and the native gongs, all of which contribute to the magnificence of the festival. In addition, art exhibits, beauty pageants, photo contests, and singing and dancing contests also take place during the festival offering travellers plenty of opportunities for participation. It really is an incredible time of year in the Philippines.”

The Philippines has never been more accessible, with Cebu Pacific launching a new Melbourne route in August 2018, now with three weekly flights from Melbourne to Manila, plus five weekly flights from Sydney to Manila.  Qantas has also introduced a seventh weekly flight on its Sydney to Manila route, whilst PAL offers six weekly flights from Sydney, along with five weekly flights from Brisbane and Melbourne to Manila.

The next Sinulog festival will take place on Sunday, 19 January Sinulog 2020.

For more information, visit Tourism Philippines at https://www.tourismphilippines.com.au/.  Follow Tourism Philippines on Facebook and Instagram.  #itsmorefuninthePhilippines #Philippines